Olympus SZ-15 vs Zeiss ZX1

In this article, we will be reviewing the Olympus SZ-15 and Zeiss ZX1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Zeiss. There exists a huge gap among the resolutions of the SZ-15 (16MP) and ZX1 (37MP) and the SZ-15 (1/2.3") and ZX1 (Full frame) come with totally different sensor dimensions.

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The SZ-15 was revealed 6 years prior to the ZX1 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-15 being a Compact camera and the Zeiss ZX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a complete comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the SZ-15 grades against the ZX1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-15 and Zeiss ZX1. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-15 Gallery and Zeiss ZX1 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry your camera, you have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-15 provides outer measurements of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") having a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs) and the Zeiss ZX1 has measurements of 142mm x 93mm x 46mm (5.6" x 3.7" x 1.8") accompanied by a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Examine the Olympus SZ-15 and Zeiss ZX1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are utilising at the time. The following is the front view size comparison of the SZ-15 against the ZX1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-15 and ZX1 is 88 and 67 respectively.

Quite often, it's difficult to see the gap in sensor sizing merely by going through technical specs. The photograph underneath may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-15 and ZX1.

As you have seen, each of these cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The SZ-15 with its smaller sensor will make getting bokeh trickier and the Zeiss ZX1 will provide more detail because of its extra 21MP. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures far more aggressively. The older SZ-15 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.